We are the independent statutory regulator for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and registered pharmacies in Great Britain. What we do is set out in legislation.
Pharmacy Order 2010
The GPhC was established by the Pharmacy Order 2010 which sets out our role, responsibilities and functions. Our primary purpose is the protection of the public.
Before we came into existence, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain was responsible for the regulation of the pharmacy professions and pharmacy premises in Great Britain.
Our Rules
The Pharmacy Order 2010 gives our governing Council powers to make orders and rules, subject to approval by the Privy Council. These orders and rules sit underneath the Pharmacy Order 2010 and cover more detailed aspects of our functions such as registration, fitness to practise, education and training and fees.
We have a legal power contained within the Pharmacy Order to set fees rules without needing Privy Council approval.
Other legislation
In addition, we also have powers and responsibilities for the registration of pharmacy premises and for enforcing certain legal requirements within the Medicines Act 1968 and the Poisons Act 1972.
Rules and Statutory Instruments
There have been some changes to our legislation since it was first made. You can access the Pharmacy Order 2010, the Medicines Act 1968, and our Rules by following the links to the Government’s legislation page below.
The Pharmacy Order 2010
The Medicines Act 1968
General Pharmaceutical Council (Constitution) Order 2010
General Pharmaceutical Council (Registration Rules) Order of Council 2010
The General Pharmaceutical Council (Statutory Committees and their Advisers Rules) Order of Council 2010
General Pharmaceutical Council (Appeals Committee Rules) Order of Council 2010
General Pharmaceutical Council (Fitness to Practise and Disqualification etc. Rules) Order of Council 2010
General Pharmaceutical Council (Continuing Professional Development and Consequential Amendments Rules) Order of Council 2011
The General Pharmaceutical Council (Amendment) Rules Order of Council 2022